Traveling includes many different activities, but one that cannot be overlooked is the coffee stop in order to grab a coffee before the long travels ahead.
The sweet and savory flavor of coffee with all of the customized features, such as syrups and cold foam, reel in many customers, most consuming coffee multiple times a week.
The enjoyment of getting a coffee instead of making it at home almost feels like the drink tastes better because of the experience and the plastic cup it comes in. Even though this hurts the environment, costs more than making it at home, and adds time to your travels, why do we still prioritize it?
We as a society have become dependent on the caffeine surge in the morning, physiologically tricking our brains into thinking our day will go better with the treat.
Before a long road trip or during a layover for a flight, we feel the need to rejuvenate and reset before the travels ahead. Is coffee a necessity? No. But is the happiness and enjoyment it fulfills a necessity in our everyday lives?
Many could and would say “yes.”
It has become an afternoon activity as well, and why is this? This goes deeper than just a cup in the morning: David Robson supports the idea that spending time with others is one of the main reasons why coffee is consumed at coffee shops.
The trend of it has taken over the lives of many. David Robson refers to coffee as “the symbol of hospitality,” which is accurate in the way that many people use coffee as a way to meet and socialize. Do we truly enjoy the drink or just buy it to be with others?
We often make the choice to be late to appointments, work, or school because our order is taking a while or the coffee place is not on the way. Coffee has ultimately become more important than our everyday activities.
So where the constant addiction to this routine coming from? Allie Fenwick identifies that time is a major factor because we rush out the door for work and say in our heads, “I’ll just stop on the way.” Another reason is the comfort in feeling calm and prepared with a schedule each morning.
On the other hand, the cost will add up over time. But it seems that we overlook that and continue to buy coffee. Our minds have become immune to worrying about money and more about instant gratification.
Coffee has become part of many peoples’ lives, especially when traveling. Location is a large part of the popularity because coffee shops are placed in malls, airports, and on exits off of major highways. The influence of society has increased the buying activity across the country.
Often, we tend to spend more money on trips, saving up for expensive dinners in the new location. This includes the coffee intake and furthers the amount of purchases while on vacation.
Next time you go to buy a coffee from a coffee shop, think about why you chose to go. Whether it is to meet friends or grab a morning energizer, every purchase has a meaning behind it.
